swim caps and cuttlefish ink

After 2 weeks of the course, we went away for the night to a resort in the mountains.  It was so beautiful--so green and so nice to be away from the city.  We had not ventured out much yet at this point from the church and so it was so refreshing!  Pastor Oh, Soo Jung, and Haim (just turned 3) took us along with our interpreter, Soo Jin.  We ate well once again, and had our first experience of a more traditional Koren bedroom--no beds.  They provide cushions and a comforter and there you go!  We also were introduced to the Korean way of swimming in a pool...CAPS ON!  Ah yes, Matt, Laura and I got to sport an attractive swim cap while enjoying the pool!  Unfortunately, no pics to document :)  

Meals have continued to bring new experiences for us (although I must admit that we have now found TGI Fridays here!).  One very enjoyable one was when one of the elders of the church brought us to the US Army base here in Seoul where her husband works for a brunch.  The Lord knew we were in need of some home cooking :) I have never eaten so well--eggs benedict, strawberry & whipped cream waffles, made to order omelets, amazing fruit, potatoes, prime rib, homemade peach ice cream... (yes, I ate all of these!!) plus so much more that I didn't have room for. 

A few other things that we have now grown accustomed to include eel, which surprisingly, I really enjoy.  We also have had a few dishes with cuttlefish ink--both in pasta (makes it black and stains your mouth) and in fried mozzarella balls.  Not bad :)  

The last week of the course went very well.  It is amazing how quickly it came.  It felt like the end of a marathon when you have to press through a bit to the finish line, but it was so encouraging to see where everyone had come to.  On the last Thursday, they were able to create some prayer teams for their recovery ministry service--they were walking in all the things that we had taught them during the weeks!  What a sweet victory :)  The last day, we had a party for the class to celebrate all the Lord had done in and through them.  For those who have been around Koreans, you know there is no escaping the blessing song...puppy-dog eyes and outstretched arms towards you with a song of thanks.  We then sang one in return that Matt had written for the occasion..."konsamida (thank you), komsamida, kom sami-sami-sami-sami-samida".  For a live rendition, please ask Matt to share when you see him--I am sure he will thank me :)